Liberty Lake, just north of Mount Ayr on Highway 169, has seen some changes over the past two years since Ringgold County Conservation acquired it from the City of Mount Ayr, when it was still called the “Old Lake” by residents.
Since the Fall of 2018, the lake looks anything but “old” and is embracing its new lease on life as Liberty Lake.
Armoring on the shoreline, a new disc golf course and new docks are some of the physical improvements that can be seen when visiting the area.
Just recently, Ringgold County Conservation Board Executive Director Kate Zimmerman announced her department was approved for a $100,000 Land and Water Conservation Fund grant with final review by the National Park Service coming in the next few months.
The grant will go towards a brand-new shower house for “Phase 3” of the Liberty Lake Project, which will also see primitive cabins and a campground installed.
The grant, however, is a 1:1 matching grant, meaning Ringgold County Conservation needs to raise another $100,000 to meet the grant guidelines by March 2021.
Fundraising is well underway to match the grant, with Larry and Rita Hunter contributing a generous $25,000 to fund a quarter of the needed funds.
All donations to the project in the amount of $250 or more will receive permanent recognition on a donor kiosk at the Liberty Lake campground and any donations can be sent to Ringgold County Conservation 2205 210th Street, Mount Ayr, Iowa 50854.
For any questions about donations, call 641-464-2787 or email RinggoldCCB@ringgoldcounty.us.
